Sunflowers may be best known for their large, golden flowers and melt-in-your-mouth seeds, but sunflower seed oil is another product of Helianthus annus that is a must-have in any kitchen. This oil:
What are Sunflowers?
With their big, golden-yellow flowers and melt-in-your-mouth seeds, sunflowers are a beloved plant native to central and eastern North America, but treasured world-wide. Helianthus annus is a tall, erect annual plant sometimes reaching a height of 9 feet. Its stem is hairy, ending in a solitary or small cluster of flowers, the center of which contains the tiny black fruits that hold the small, tasty white seeds.
Thanks to its influence in the regions of North America, sunflowers were widely used by Native Americans for generations. It was a common crop amongst tribes, and was cultivated as far back as 3000 B.C. Some archaeologists believe that sunflowers were domesticated even before corn! Native Americans used every part of sunflowers for a variety of applications; the seeds were used in dishes ground or whole, the stalks were used as building material, and the oil, which was squeezed from the seeds, was used for the skin and hair.
Sunflower Seed Oil Products
Cold-pressed from sunflower seeds, sunflower seed oil is a versatile product, used in cooking, beauty applications, and even as a carrier oil for essential oils in aromatherapy. It naturally contains omega-6 linoleic acid and omega-9 oleic acid, as well as vitamins A, D, E, and plant sterols.
Piping Rock’s pure Sunflower Seed Oil is filtered and refined, resulting in a pale-yellow vegetable oil that can withstand high-heat cooking and a longer shelf life. Its delicate flavor is perfect for your next recipe, and is suitable for low to high-heat cooking. Sunflower seed oil is also wonderful as a hair and skin oil, and as a base for essential oils.
Directions for Use
Sunflower Oil's delicate flavor lends itself to most any dish and is ideal for everyday use. Use in cooking from low to high heat. Great for frying, sautéing, dressings, soups, and salads. Can also be added to shakes and smoothies to boost nutritional content and add its familiar flavor. For optimum freshness, keep refrigerated and use within 4 months after opening.
